My husband and I visited Zocalo (on Calle 8 between Av 5 & 10) last night for my birthday dinner and the owner Paul Brans, did us proud.
The place is so beautiful, designed entirely by Paul himself, and it's extremely comfortable with cushy chairs and barstools, with lots of fans much needed at this time of year.
As we sat having drinks, we were given spicy popcorn and salty mixed nuts. As a birthday present, Paul served me very good, very cold champagne, which he knows I love.
My appetizer was a spinch salad with grilled proscuitto, fresh baby asparagus and shaved parmesan - it was so good I woke up this morning wanting another for breakfast. My husband had the chicken liver parfait, served with toast points made out of Paul's own yummy bread, and pronounced it almost better than his favourite foie gras!
Our main courses were slow-roasted lamb shanks - succulent and falling off the bone, huge shanks making the N. Zealand ones look like fingers. Everything was hot and delicious, and we were served more warm homemade bread and mashed potatoes with the meat.
The piece de resistance came at the end of the meal when Paul, with all his servers, arrived singing with more champagne and an incredible slice of chocolate torte on a large plate with a birthday greeting written on it in chocolate. As I blew out the candle, my wish was to have exactly the same company and meal on my next birthday!
Wow, what a fabulous end to a great day! Zocalo is high end dining with a gracious, fun host and owner in Paul Brans.
Peeps, you owe yourself a visit to this exceptional restaurant on your next trip to Playa!